Local animation studios seek part of huge international market

Philippine animation studios are hoping to capture a bigger share of the animation industry globally with their exposure and participation at the recently concluded International Market of Communications Program (Mipcom) in Cannes, France.

“France has the largest animation industry in Europe and the third largest in the world, so there is a lot of potential for our animation industry to set up partnerships and increase awareness of the creative Filipino talent in France,” Philippine Ambassador to France Ma. Theresa Lazaro said.

“Mipcom is a big opportunity for the animation industry of the Philippines. The major players are here and our presence in this important event is essential. We expect to generate new business engagements as there is a growing demand for content and creative services here in Europe,” added Juan Miguel Del Rosario, president of the Animation Council of the Philippines Inc. (ACPI).

Philippine companies that participated at the Mipcom were ASI Animation Studios, RenderBee, Synergy88, TeamApp, Toon City, Toon City Academy, Top Peg Animation and 88storey Films.

These Filipino companies showcased their talents in creative design and animation capabilities for web and mobile games applications, interactive and immersive visual technology, animation for TV, film and the internet, production of audio-visual presentations and commercials for TV, cinemas and the internet.

“Given the capabilities of the participating companies, we are confident that this participation will open doors of opportunities for our content industry as we aggressively move to prioritize new markets and new services to expand our exports” said Senen M. Perlada, director at the Export Marketing Bureau of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Aside from their participation at the Mipcom, Philippine animation companies also held meetings with the French Association of Animated Film (AFCA) and the Network of French Animation Schools (RECA), which included Les Gobelins, the number one animation school in the world. French animators were also invited to join Animahenasyon, the country’s animated film festival, and to establish potential partnerships in higher education and training. —Amy R. Remo